VILLAGERS looked back over the past as well as forward to the future as they celebrated 100 years of league Football in Milborne St Andrew.

A special day of celebrations was held to mark the landmark occasion, which also included the opening of new training pitches to kick off a fresh start for the club.

All generations turned out to enjoy a day of entertainment in the sunshine and celebrate the contribution football had made to the village over the years.

The current first team got everyone in a celebratory mood by dispatching their rivals Poole Borough 8-1 in their league fixture.

They were cheered on by a large number of ex-players, who were then put together into two teams at the last minute to have a kick around and show they had lost none of their skills.

Milborne old boy Dusty Miller, who turned out for the club in the 1950s, presented a special exhibition match ball.

As well as the official opening of the new mini soccer pitches, Milborne Mini Soccer also unveiled its new kit – which had kindly been sponsored by DCM Tyres of Blandford and Shaftesbury.

Club secretary for Milborne St Andrew FC Youth Marie Hayter said: “This was a day for reflection on past glories and catching up with old friends as past players reminisced over old video footage,
photographs and memorabilia. “Not only was this a day for current success and past glories but also a day to look to the future of the club.”

The new pitches were opened by dedicated groundsman Malcolm Applin.

Marie added: “With such amazing facilities and new mini soccer pitches the club now hopes to attract more players.

“A massive thank you from everyone involved in Milborne Football for the continued support and good will from the local community.”